Why in News?
The Maharashtra Government is planning initiatives to seek UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) recognition for Ganeshotsav and Dahi Handi, two major cultural traditions of the state.
Key Highlights
- Ganeshotsav was transformed into a public festival by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 1893.
- It played an important role in bringing people together during the freedom movement.
- Maharashtra has around 28 lakh Ganpati idols, with nearly 10,600 public Ganesh mandals in Mumbai.
- Dahi Handi is celebrated a day after Janmashtami and combines religious tradition, community participation and sport.
- Around 1,800 Dahi Handi events were held across Maharashtra in 2025.
- The state provides ₹10 lakh insurance cover to each participating Govinda.
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
The UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List seeks to safeguard living cultural traditions, including knowledge, skills, rituals, performing arts and community practices passed down through generations.
Indian Traditions on UNESCO ICH List
Important Indian entries include:
- Deepavali
- Durga Puja in Kolkata
- Kumbh Mela
- Garba of Gujarat
